Red Specks in Stool: Should You Be Concerned About Your Gut Health?
There are red solid particles in the stool? Hello doctor, recently my bowel movements have been yellowish-brown and streaky, but today there was a thin red chunk mixed in with the stool. It doesn't look much like blood; it seems more like residue (I'm not quite sure). I...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further observation is possible; if there are concerns, a stool occult blood test can be performed.[Read More] Red Specks in Stool: Should You Be Concerned About Your Gut Health?
Understanding Blood in Stool: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The stool is composed entirely of blood? Hello doctor, I have been constipated for several days, only passing small, hard stools. On the evening of January 18, I ate purple dragon fruit, and on January 19 at 8 PM, I suddenly started experiencing sharp pain in my lower left abdome...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It may be due to food coloring; further observation is recommended. If it is bright red, seek emergency care.[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Understanding Digestive Issues: Black Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Digestive and bowel issues? I have noticed that my stool has been dark brown, almost black, over the past few days. On Monday, it was very thick and hard, and the next day it became more pellet-like with a lighter color. Today, I also had pellet-like stools but simultaneously pas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
As long as the weight is normal, continue to monitor the diet and observe.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Black Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Managing Gastritis and GERD: Tips for Relief After Meals
Gastritis with gastroesophageal reflux, postprandial discomfort and pain? Hello Doctor, I am a 22-year-old male. In the morning on an empty stomach, I experience stomach growling. After breakfast, lunch, and dinner, I have a feeling of heaviness and discomfort, especially after l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It can be discussed with the attending physician that whey protein should be harmless.[Read More] Managing Gastritis and GERD: Tips for Relief After Meals
Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation, Diarrhea, and Possible Causes
Hello, doctor. I have some intestinal issues I would like to discuss? Hello, doctor. I have a problem with constipation, so I have been taking laxatives. However, over the past couple of months, my bowel movements have become a bit strange; sometimes I experience constipation, ot...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Mr. A-Q, based on your symptoms, they are more indicative of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, if you are not experiencing significant improvement with medication, I recommend discussing with your treating physician whether further examinations are necessary. As for ...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation, Diarrhea, and Possible Causes
Unexplained Abdominal Pain: What Tests to Consider Next?
Abdominal pain with normal test results? Hello, doctor. Since November 11, I have been experiencing abdominal pain when bending over, particularly with certain movements that put pressure on my abdomen. Specifically, I feel a sudden sharp pain on the left side of my abdomen (near...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. Aasta, based on the symptoms you described, an abdominal ultrasound can be arranged. Additionally, if there is not much improvement with medication treatment, you should discuss further examinations with your attending physician, and possibly arrange for a CT scan. Than...[Read More] Unexplained Abdominal Pain: What Tests to Consider Next?
Understanding Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?
Bowel-related issues and pancreatic problems? Doctor, I would like to ask a question. On January 3rd, due to the cold weather and strong winds that evening, I might have caught a chill, which led to a fever of about 37.8 degrees Celsius. On my way home, I bought some ready-to-eat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The described process pertains to enteritis, which involves a light diet and seeking medical attention for medication management as necessary, while monitoring for changes. Rapid testing may also be considered.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?
Understanding Variations in Stool Consistency: When to Seek Help
The stool is mushy at the end? Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing issues related to my bowel movements and would like to ask for your advice. I typically have a bowel movement once a day, but the amount can vary. Sometimes, when I sit for a longer period, the amount is great...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is normal for the latter part of the stool to be softer, which may result in softer or thinner stools, and in some cases, it may even appear pasty. If the stool occult blood test is normal, there is no need to worry too much. However, if you are at high risk (for exampl...[Read More] Understanding Variations in Stool Consistency: When to Seek Help
Understanding Anal Tightness and Swelling After Constipation Issues
Swelling and tightness in the anus after a bowel movement? I have been experiencing long-term constipation, which has caused me to strain significantly during bowel movements. Over time (more than a year), I have noticed that my anus feels very tight, to the point where I can...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: You can consult a colorectal specialist to check for any signs of anal warts. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Anal Tightness and Swelling After Constipation Issues
Understanding Black Residues in Stool: When to Worry?
Bowel issues Hello, I ate chrysanthemum greens the day before yesterday. Could that cause black residue in my stool? My stool is normally yellow, thick, and long, but there is a black strip and a flat black piece embedded in it. I had a colonoscopy and gastroscopy in March and Ap...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is normal for the color of digested vegetables to appear darker; there is no need to worry about it.[Read More] Understanding Black Residues in Stool: When to Worry?
Understanding the Link Between Fecal Occult Blood and Elevated CEA Levels
Fecal occult blood and its correlation with CEA levels? Hello doctor, my father, a long-time smoker, had a blood test yesterday that showed a CEA level of 9.4. The doctor advised him to quickly schedule a colonoscopy, but we have to wait two weeks for the results. In July, he had...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It's a matter of perspective, and there is no definitive answer (there should be no colorectal cancer, but polyps cannot be ruled out). If concerned, a colonoscopy should be performed, but lung cancer is also a possibility; the important thing is to quit smoking.[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Fecal Occult Blood and Elevated CEA Levels
Understanding Stool Surface Marks: When to Seek Medical Advice
Stool surface markings Hello, doctor. I had a fecal occult blood test this year, and the results were normal. Recently, my bowel movements have been once a day, with soft but formed stools. The color is normal, slightly yellow, and the thickness is neither too thick nor too thin....
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Ms. Chen: You can take a photo and then schedule an appointment with the colorectal department to discuss it with the attending physician. Director Cai Jin-ji of the Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology Department at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Stool Surface Marks: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Causes and Concerns of Colitis
Blood on toilet paper after a bowel movement, diagnosed as colitis? I occasionally eat out, but I usually eat at home, consuming a lot of vegetables, mostly organic, and I rarely eat fried or spicy foods, maintaining a light diet. Until mid-November of this year, I was having reg...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can first return to the gastroenterologist for a discussion.[Read More] Understanding Blood on Toilet Paper: Causes and Concerns of Colitis
Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Hemorrhoids vs. Colon Cancer Concerns
Bowel issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a recent feeling of heaviness in my anus. I have a history of hemorrhoids, and with the upcoming exams, I've been staying up late frequently. I also have a habit of using my phone while having a bowel movement. My stools f...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. At the age of 17, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is low. 2. You can consult a gastroenterologist or a proctologist for evaluation. A colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or anoscopy may be performed. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Rectal Discomfort: Hemorrhoids vs. Colon Cancer Concerns
Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation and Diarrhea Cycles Explained
Bowel movement issues Hello doctor, for the past two years, I've been experiencing a cycle of constipation for several days a week, followed by a day of diarrhea, and then back to constipation. During constipation, I often feel like there is a large stool stuck in my rectum,...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: You may try increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables, as well as fluids, while also reducing the consumption of irritant foods such as fried and spicy foods. If there is no improvement, you can consult a gastroenterologist for medication to assist with bowel movemen...[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation and Diarrhea Cycles Explained
Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Abdominal discomfort lasting for three to four months? Hello doctor, I usually experience abdominal pain that lasts no longer than 3 to 6 seconds, similar to a sudden punch. However, the location varies; sometimes it's between my stomach and chest, sometimes in the left uppe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
It is likely not a gastrointestinal issue. It is recommended to adopt a healthy diet for weight loss, avoid intense exercise during pain, and warm up before exercising to prevent strains.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation and Digestive Concerns Explained
Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about bowel movement issues? Hello Doctor: I am currently using some sedative sleeping pills, and one of the side effects is constipation. Therefore, I have been taking 5 mg of bisacodyl, two tablets before bedtime. However, over the past mo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no evidence to directly link abnormal peristalsis with cancer. It is advisable to perform fecal occult blood testing every 1 to 2 years if necessary.[Read More] Understanding Bowel Issues: Constipation and Digestive Concerns Explained
Is It Possible to Have Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms and Concerns
Is it possible to have colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing irregular bowel movements; sometimes I go more than three times a day, and other times I have difficulty passing stool. When I do, it is usually in a soft, cylindrical shape but not hard. Recently, I...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may not necessarily be colorectal cancer; it's important to maintain a regular diet and lifestyle. If you notice any abnormalities in your stool, it is advisable to first test for fecal occult blood. The likelihood of gastric ulcers is certainly higher than that of...[Read More] Is It Possible to Have Colon Cancer? Understanding Your Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Elevated FOBT Results: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) value greater than 30? Hello, doctor. Last month, during my company's health check-up, it coincided with the first day of my menstrual period. I informed the nurse that I would submit my stool and urine samples later. The nurse advised that it ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
To address anxiety, a colonoscopy may be performed. If the values are not high, there is no need to worry.[Read More] Understanding Elevated FOBT Results: Should You Worry About Colon Cancer?
Persistent Left Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Left lower abdominal distension? Hello Doctor, I have been feeling a sense of heaviness and bloating in my lower left abdomen since mid-October. A few days later, I experienced cramping pain in my intestines and had diarrhea for a day or two. I visited a clinic, and the doctor di...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Local heat application can be used, along with regular exercise, to monitor changes in symptoms and provide relevant information for the attending physician.[Read More] Persistent Left Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps